Questions to Ask Before You Have Surgery

1. What operation are you recommending?
   
   
2. Why do I need the operation?
   
   
3. Are there alternatives to surgery?
   
   
4. What are the benefits of having the operation?
   
   
5. What are the risks of having the operation?
   
   
6. What if I don't have this operation?
   
   
7. Where can I get a second opinion?
   
   
8. What has been your experience in doing the operation?
   
   
9. Where will the operation be done?
   
   
10. What kind of anesthesia will I need?
    
    
11. How long will it take me to recover?
    
    
12. How much will the operation cost?

Surgeons' Qualifications

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Reprinted from the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research

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